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Water Safety

Water Safety Advice And Tips - Know The Risks (rnli.org)

Safety

Learn how you can keep you and your loved ones safe at the coast and in the water with advice from the RNLI’s water safety experts.
 

Heading to the coast or out on the water is a great way to have fun and stay active. But, if you're not careful, it's a lot easier to get into trouble in the water than you might think. Conditions can change quickly and if you're not prepared, you can easily get caught out.

We've collected together all of our advice in one place, so you can find the information you need to make the most out of your time at the coast. Whether you're going to the beach, exploring the coast, or venturing out onto the water, we have the sea safety advice to help you stay safe. 

A man wearing a loose shirt, tshirt, trousers and shoes floating on his back, in the sea, with arms and legs

Float to Live

If you get in trouble in the water – float to live. Lean back, extend your arms and legs and control your breathing. Then call for help. Share this skill with friends and family – it could save their life.
Kitesurfer in Poole Harbour

Photo: RNLI / Nathan Williams

Kitesurfer in Poole Harbour

Choose your activity

Thinking of going kayaking? Angling? Surfing? Or even just heading to the coast for a walk? Learn how to have fun and stay safe in the water and at the beach. Our sea safety experts have created activity guides covering a wide range of watersports and hobbies, so you can prepare yourself properly for the challenges of your chosen activity.

The sea surface from under the water

Photo: RNLI / Nathan Williams

Know the risks

The sea can be a great place to have fun and relax, but it can also be a dangerous place. Being aware of the potential dangers can prevent you from getting into danger before it happens. Read our water safety guides and know how to spot hazards at the coast and in the water so you don’t get caught out.

140PEOPLE DIE BY ACCIDENT AT OUR COASTS PER YEAR

12,903PEOPLE AIDED BY LIFEBOAT CREWS IN 2021

35+MEN OVER THE AGE OF 35 ARE MOST AT RISK

40,762PEOPLE AIDED BY LIFEGUARDS IN 2021

Float to live - cold water shock

Cold water shock

If you fall unexpectedly in the water you could suffer from cold water shock. Would you know what to do?
A lifeguard talking to a family on the beach

Photo: Nigel Millard

A lifeguard talking to a family on the beach